10 Interior Defensive Linemen to Watch in the 2025 NFL Draft

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As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams are busy evaluating potential prospects to add to their rosters. One of the key positions that will undoubtedly draw significant attention is the interior defensive line. Teams are always on the lookout for disruptive and versatile interior linemen who can wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Here is a look at 10 interior defensive linemen to watch ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

1. Derrick Johnson, Alabama

Derrick Johnson is a dominant force on the interior defensive line for the Alabama Crimson Tide. At 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds, Johnson possesses the size and strength to hold his ground against the run while also showcasing impressive quickness and agility to penetrate into the backfield. His ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt opposing quarterbacks will undoubtedly make him a highly sought-after prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.

2. Marcus Davis, Ohio State

Marcus Davis has been a stalwart on the Ohio State Buckeyes' defensive line. His combination of power, technique, and relentless motor makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. Davis displays excellent hand placement and leverage, allowing him to control the line of scrimmage and make plays in the backfield. His disruptive presence as an interior lineman will make him a coveted prospect in the upcoming draft.

3. Xavier Brown, Georgia

Xavier Brown has been a key contributor to the Georgia Bulldogs' defensive front throughout his college career. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, Brown possesses the ideal physical attributes for an interior defensive lineman. His explosiveness off the ball and ability to shed blocks make him a disruptive force against the run and a handful for interior offensive linemen to handle. Brown's combination of size, strength, and athleticism will undoubtedly make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams.

4. Jordan Smith, Clemson

Jordan Smith has been a standout performer for the Clemson Tigers' defense. His blend of quickness, power, and football IQ has allowed him to consistently make plays in the trenches. Smith's ability to read and react to opposing offenses, coupled with his adeptness at penetrating the backfield, makes him a versatile interior defensive lineman. His skill set and production at the college level will likely propel him into the spotlight as a top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.

5. Elijah Martinez, LSU

Elijah Martinez has been a disruptive force on the interior defensive line for LSU. His blend of strength, athleticism, and technical proficiency has made him a handful for opposing offensive linemen. Martinez's ability to collapse the pocket and wreak havoc in the backfield will undoubtedly make him an enticing prospect for NFL teams in need of interior pass-rushing prowess. His impact as a disruptive force in the trenches will undoubtedly garner attention leading up to the draft.

6. Malik Wright, Oklahoma

Malik Wright has been a standout performer for the Oklahoma Sooners, consistently making his presence felt in the middle of the defensive line. His combination of size, power, and agility has allowed him to excel as both a run-stuffer and a pass rusher. Wright's ability to anchor against double teams and collapse the pocket with his quickness off the snap makes him a highly coveted prospect for NFL teams in need of interior defensive line help.

7. Aiden Thompson, Notre Dame

Aiden Thompson has been a disruptive force for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, showcasing his ability to consistently penetrate into the backfield and disrupt opposing offenses. His quick hands and explosive first step allow him to consistently win battles at the line of scrimmage, making him a headache for opposing offensive linemen. Thompson's knack for creating chaos in the backfield and his high motor will undoubtedly make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams in search of interior defensive line talent.

8. Terry Harris, Michigan

Terry Harris has been a standout performer for the Michigan Wolverines, consistently wreaking havoc in the trenches. His combination of power, quickness, and football instincts allows him to consistently make plays against the run and the pass. Harris' ability to shed blocks and collapse the pocket with his relentless motor will undoubtedly make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their interior defensive line.

9. Jamal Carter, Florida

Jamal Carter has been a disruptive force on the interior defensive line for the Florida Gators. His blend of size, athleticism, and explosiveness makes him a handful for opposing offensive linemen to handle. Carter's ability to clog running lanes and collapse the pocket with his bull rush will undoubtedly make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams in need of interior defensive line help.

10. Patrick Miller, Texas

Patrick Miller has been a standout performer for the Texas Longhorns, consistently wreaking havoc in the trenches. His blend of size, strength, and technique allows him to control the line of scrimmage and make plays in the backfield. Miller's ability to anchor against the run and collapse the pocket with his pass-rushing prowess will undoubtedly make him a highly sought-after prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, these 10 interior defensive linemen will undoubtedly be on the radar of NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive fronts. Each prospect brings a unique skill set and disruptive potential that will undoubtedly make them highly sought after when the draft rolls around. Keep an eye on these talented interior defensive linemen as they look to make their mark at the next level.